Sonali Shomoy (Golden TIME)

Reviewed By Mohammad Yusuf

Sonali Shomoy (Golden Days) is an outstanding book that offers a nostalgic account of the renowned Chittagong College, several other colleges, and the author's professional journey, including his career in teaching and public service.

Printed on offset paper, this 351-page book is priced at only BDT 400, with additional discounts available. It is undoubtedly a valuable book worth collecting and reading.
Places where the book is available:
Azad Book Corner, Keari Elysium Shopping Mall, Parade Corner, Chattogram. Mobile: 01785-643514 (Omar Faruk).

Friends Book Corner, 3rd Floor, Rafin Plaza, Nilkhet (opposite Dhaka New Market), Dhaka.

In this context, I would like to recall a beautiful quote by popular writer Redowan Masud about collecting books:

"Both books and wives are important. However, those who have a wife at home but no books have deprived their homes of light."

To be honest, Sonali Shomoy is a delightful and engaging read. Written in simple, straightforward language with heartfelt expression and enriched with numerous photographs, the author has presented the book beautifully. This informative and illustrated work is particularly valuable for knowledge-seeking students, teachers, and researchers. Readers will gain detailed insights into the heritage of historic Chittagong College as well as several other educational institutions.

The book features some rare photographs of former principals and vice-principals of Chittagong College. In addition, photographs of the principals and vice-principals of Chittagong Government Women's College, Feni Teachers Training College, and KAFCO School and College have also been included.


The Liberation War is a matter of our pride and glory. In Chapter Eleven (pages 251-256), the author shares his childhood memories and personal experiences of the Liberation War.

Furthermore, the author has been involved in various scholarship initiatives aimed at supporting education and social welfare. These activities are described in detail in Chapter Fourteen.

I believe that reading this book will inspire readers to contribute positively to society with the spirit of the famous lines:
"All are for everyone, and we are for all; Each of us exists for the welfare of others."

The statement "Industry is key to success" is clearly reflected throughout the book. On page 189, drawing from his real-life experiences, the author writes:
"That is why I say that people cannot understand how and in what ways Allah provides sustenance to whom."

Through this statement, the author's unwavering faith and trust in Almighty Allah (Subhanahu Wa Ta'ala) are beautifully reflected.

After reading the book, I came to understand that the author's professional and teaching experiences are remarkably rich, spanning the years from 1983 to 2019. He describes this extended period as his Golden Days, a time that will never return.

During this period, he served in 20 government colleges in various capacities, including Lecturer, Professor of English, Head of Department, and Principal. Throughout these years, he not only imparted knowledge but also continued to acquire it. He worked hard, overcame challenges, and enjoyed a fulfilling professional life. During this long journey, he walked along the rural roads of Chhagalnaiya while teaching at Chhagalnaiya College, just as he later walked along the streets of London and France. He also had the opportunity to perform Hajj and visit the holy cities of Makkah and Madinah.

Speaking about the author, it is worth mentioning that throughout his extensive teaching career at various colleges, he experienced numerous transfers. However, he accepted each transfer naturally and positively, without making any attempts to influence the authorities to cancel them.

It must be acknowledged that his patience, perseverance, and dedication helped him reach the pinnacle of professional success.

One remarkable example illustrates his extraordinary journey. He was once a student in the Department of English at Chittagong College. Later, he returned to the same institution as a Lecturer in the Department of English. After a few years, he joined again as an Assistant Professor and subsequently became the Head of the Department. It was indeed a remarkable achievement when, a few years later, he was transferred and appointed Principal of that very Chittagong College.

MashaAllah! From being a student to becoming the Principal of the same college is truly an extraordinary achievement.

After retiring from government service, he continued his professional journey by serving as the Principal of KAFCO School and College for three years, from 2020 to 2023, in a pleasant working environment.

The author has described this long period of his professional and teaching career as his Golden Days. Since those glorious years will never return, he has preserved the memories of his eventful professional life in this book, Sonali Shomoy. Therefore, the title Sonali Shomoy (Golden Days) is both meaningful and appropriate.

The book's cover is beautifully designed, featuring its title in golden lettering and an elegant golden clock, which perfectly complements the theme. No printing errors came to my attention while reading the book. Without a doubt, Sonali Shomoy is a unique and valuable addition to the world of literature.

I would like to extend my heartfelt congratulations to the author for his dedication, hard work, perseverance, and sincere efforts in presenting readers with such a beautiful and valuable book.
JazakAllahu Khairan.